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Another user added: "Honestly can't believe some of these replies, where is the compassion!?

"The police are doing the best they can in an awful situation and have said if someone is seriously at risk they can get help sent to them.

"Hope the man on the bridge gets down safe and the help he needs."

Highways Authorities set up diversions but other routes between junction 28 for Cullompton and junction 29 for Exeter soon also became heavily congested.

A further four miles of traffic was trapped on the motorway between the road closure with some vehicles braking down adding to the delays.

Police said a man in his 40s from Cullompton was detained at the scene under the mental health act. He was taken to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital.

Drivers were warned to avoid the area after police were called to the scene at 3.45pm.

Some drivers tried to avoid traffic by taking back roads to their destination – this caused further problems with one resident saying ‘Willand became the M5 for the evening’.

There were also reports of some people driving the wrong way up the hard shoulder.

Devon and Cornwall Police requested that anyone who was concerned about passengers who are "vulnerable" or "unwell" to contact the force.

The road reopened at 8.45pm with congestion not clearing until after 10pm.

The Samaritans can be reached round the clock, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you need a response immediately, it’s best to call them on the phone. You can reach them by calling 116 123, by emailing jo@samaritans.org or by visitingwww.samaritans.org.

Where to find help

These local organisations offer help and support to those suffering with mental illness: